Orendorff Music Library Display Honoring Daniel DiCicco

During Fall 2009, the Orendorff Music Library will feature a display honoring Dr. Daniel DiCicco, director of Bands at IUP from 1956 until his retirement in 1989.

DiCicco, a native of Beaver Falls, Pa., graduated from IUP in 1954. He earned his master’s degree (1956) and Doctor of Musical Arts degree (1974) from the University of Michigan.

During his thirty-three years at IUP, Dr. DiCicco established himself as one of the leading music educators in the commonwealth, serving as director of high school honors band programs, guest conductor for state and regional band festivals, and a role model and mentor to hundreds of music students. He founded the IUP Wind Ensemble in 1961 and the Honors Band in 1974. In 1986 he received the IUP Distinguished Faculty Award, and in 2003 he received the Alumni Award for Service.

The Music Library display includes artifacts and photographs documenting DiCicco’s life as a student, musician, teacher, family man, and Steelers fan. He passed away at his home in Lakeland, Florida, on February 3, 2009. A special memorial concert in his honor will be presented at IUP on September 27, 2009.

The Music Department and IUP Foundation are raising funds to name the large ensemble room in Cogswell Hall the Dr. Daniel and Dorothy DiCicco Rehearsal Hall.